ARABIAN NIGHTS Meaning and
Definition
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Arabian Nights, also known as One Thousand and One Nights, refers to a collection of folk tales and stories originating from the Middle East and South Asia. Primarily written in Arabic, it is one of the most famous compilations of literature in the world. The title derives from the framing narrative, where the Persian king Shahryar discovers his wife's infidelity and subsequently vows to marry a new virgin every night and have her executed in the morning. Intriguingly, Shahrazad, one of the newlywed women, begins telling him enchanting stories every night, yet with strategic cliffhangers, in order to prolong her survival and win his compassion.
The collection encompasses a vast range of tales, featuring elements of adventure, romance, comedy, fantasy, and horror, offering readers an insight into the diverse culture and traditions of the Arabian Peninsula. It includes famous stories such as "Aladdin's Wonderful Lamp," "Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves," and "Sinbad the Sailor," among many others. These tales often contain supernatural beings, elaborate settings, and moral teachings.
Having been translated into numerous languages, the Arabian Nights has achieved worldwide prominence and captivated audiences throughout history. Its impact on literature, art, and popular culture has been extensive. Countless adaptations, retellings, and references to the Arabian Nights can be found in various art forms, including literature, theater, film, music, and visual arts. The captivating allure and enduring legacy of this remarkable compendium have made the Arabian Nights an essential part of global storytelling.
Common Misspellings for ARABIAN NIGHTS
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Etymology of ARABIAN NIGHTS
The word "Arabian Nights" refers to the collection of Middle Eastern folk tales known as "One Thousand and One Nights". The etymology of the term can be traced back to the geographical and cultural origin of the stories themselves.
The term "Arabian" reflects the association of these tales with the Arab world and the Arabic culture. It points to the fact that most of the stories were, originally, written in Arabic or had their origins in the Arab-speaking regions.
The term "Nights" refers to the structure of the collection, where the stories are told over a sequence of nights. According to the framing narrative of the collection, a Persian king named Shahryār discovers that his wife has been unfaithful and decides to marry a new wife every day and execute her in the morning.
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